Physician’s Binocular Loupe, 1954 These metal-framed, high-magnification glasses were used for fine detail procedures, such as inspecting wounds and sewing sutures. “[My father] actually wore these when he stitched up my arm when I was 12 years old,” says Kaplan.
Empire Ear Syringe, 1906 This stainless steel syringe, which measures about 2 inches in diameter and came with removable rubber tips, was used to irrigate the ear for cleaning and treating infection. “That’s still something that’s used today,” says Kaplan. “It’s a great example of a classic design that didn’t need to be changed.”